U.S. patent application number 09/969821 was filed with the patent office on 2002-05-02 for liquid container and method for disconnecting liquid container.
Invention is credited to Hattori, Shozo, Hayashi, Hiroki, Kitabatake, Kenji, Koshikawa, Hiroshi, Shimizu, Eiichiro, Yamamoto, Hajime.
Application Number | 20020051045 09/969821 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 18786984 |
Filed Date | 2002-05-02 |
United States Patent
Application |
20020051045 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Koshikawa, Hiroshi ; et
al. |
May 2, 2002 |
Liquid container and method for disconnecting liquid container
Abstract
A liquid container which is in detachably connectable to a
supply tube which is in fluid communication with a liquid ejection
recording head, the liquid container including a liquid
accommodating portion for accommodating liquid to be supplied to
the liquid ejection recording head and a supply port for permitting
supply of the liquid to the recording head from the liquid
accommodating portion by connection of the liquid container to the
liquid ejection recording head, the liquid container includes a
capillary force generating member for generating a capillary force
to absorb the recording liquid deposited on the surface of the
supply tube and in the supply port into a space, other than the
liquid accommodating portion, in the liquid container; wherein a
capillary force A generated in an absorption region for absorbing
the recording liquid remaining in the supply port adjacent the
supply port of the capillary force generating member and a
capillary force B in a storing region for storing the recording
liquid absorbed in the absorption region, satisfy: A<B.
Inventors: |
Koshikawa, Hiroshi;
(Kawasaki-shi, JP) ; Hattori, Shozo; (Tokyo,
JP) ; Yamamoto, Hajime; (Yokohama-shi, JP) ;
Shimizu, Eiichiro; (Yokohama-shi, JP) ; Hayashi,
Hiroki; (Yokohama-shi, JP) ; Kitabatake, Kenji;
(Kawasaki-shi, JP) |
Correspondence
Address: |
FITZPATRICK CELLA HARPER & SCINTO
30 ROCKEFELLER PLAZA
NEW YORK
NY
10112
US
|
Family ID: |
18786984 |
Appl. No.: |
09/969821 |
Filed: |
October 4, 2001 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
347/86 ;
347/49 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B41J 2/17523 20130101;
B41J 2/17553 20130101; B41J 2/17513 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
347/86 ;
347/49 |
International
Class: |
B41J 002/14; B41J
002/175 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Oct 5, 2000 |
JP |
306262/2000 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A liquid container which is in detachably connectable to a
supply tube which is in fluid communication with a liquid ejection
recording head, said liquid container including a liquid
accommodating portion for accommodating liquid to be supplied to
the liquid ejection recording head and a supply port for permitting
supply of the liquid to the recording head from the liquid
accommodating portion by connection of said liquid container to the
liquid ejection recording head, said liquid container comprising: a
capillary force generating member for generating a capillary force
to absorb the recording liquid deposited on the surface of the
supply tube and in said supply port into a space, other than said
liquid accommodating portion, in said liquid container; wherein a
capillary force A generated in an absorption region for absorbing
the recording liquid remaining in said supply port adjacent said
supply port of said capillary force generating member and a
capillary force B in a storing region for storing the recording
liquid absorbed in the absorption region, satisfy: A<B.
2. A liquid container according to claim 1, wherein said capillary
force generating member generates the capillary force using a
fibers, a porous material or a tube having a small bore.
3. A liquid container according to claim 1, wherein said supply
port is disposed at a lower portion of said liquid container when
said liquid container is in use, and said storing region is above
said absorption region when said liquid container is in use.
4. A liquid container according to claim 1, wherein said absorbing
means includes two members having different capillary forces
corresponding to said absorption region and said storing region,
respectively.
5. A liquid container according to claim 1, wherein said absorbing
means constitutes a groove at least at a portion corresponding to
said absorption region.
6. A liquid container according to claim 1, further comprising a
valve mechanism which is provided in said supply port of said
liquid container and which opens and closes in response to
connection and disconnection of said liquid container to and from
said liquid ejection type recording device, and wherein said
absorption region is disposed adjacent to said supply port such
that after said valve mechanism is closed, the recording liquid
remaining between an opening end of said supply port and said valve
mechanism can be absorbed by said absorbing means, and said
absorption region is provided with a hole portion which is in fluid
communication with said supply port and in which has a diameter
smaller than that of said supply port.
7. A liquid container according to claim 1, further comprising a
communicating portion for fluid communication of a space for
accommodating said absorbing means in said liquid container with
the ambience.
8. A liquid container according to claim 1, wherein said liquid
container includes a liquid accommodating bladder which is capable
of accommodating the recording liquid and which is capable
producing a negative pressure by deformation in accordance with
discharge of the recording liquid from said liquid accommodating
bladder, and a casing covering said liquid accommodating bladder,
said liquid container further comprising: a liquid accommodating
portion provided with said supply port, and an ambience
communication port, provided between said casing and said liquid
accommodating bladder, for introducing the ambience; a valve
mechanism which is provided in said supply port and which opens and
closes by connection and disconnection of said liquid container to
and from said liquid ejection type recording device; a
discriminating member, engaged with said liquid accommodating
portion, for permitting said liquid container to the mounted only
to a portion predetermined corresponding to a nature of the
recording liquid contained in said liquid container; wherein said
supply port of said liquid container is disconnectably connected to
said liquid supply tube which is provided in said liquid election
type recording device, and wherein said valve mechanism is opened
and close in interrelation with connection and disconnection
between said supply port and said liquid supply tube; at least a
part of said absorbing means is disposed between said liquid
accommodating portion and said discriminating member at a position
adjacent to said supply port, said absorbing means includes and
absorbing member means for fixing the absorbing member in a space
adjacent to said liquid accommodating portion.
9. A liquid container according to claim 8, wherein the absorbing
member is protected by said discriminating member.
10. A liquid container which is detachably connectable to a liquid
ejection type recording device provided with liquid lead-out means
for leading the liquid out and which includes a liquid
accommodating portion for directly accommodating the liquid and a
supply port portion into which a liquid introduction tube of said
liquid lead-out means is insertable to lead the liquid to said
liquid lead-out means from said liquid accommodating portion;
wherein said supply port portion includes a supply tube and a cover
member for covering an end of the opening of said supply tube;
wherein said liquid container further comprises a first capillary
force generating member which is annular in shape and which is
disposed between said cover member and said supply tube, and a
second capillary force generating member contacted to said first
capillary force generating member and protected by said cover
member, and wherein a capillary force An of said first capillary
force generating member and a capillary force B of said second
capillary force generating member satisfy: A<B.
11. A liquid container according to claim 10, wherein said first
capillary force generating member is a groove provided in at least
one of the end of the opening of said supply tube and a contact
portion of said cover member relative to said supply tube.
12. A connecting and releasing method between a liquid container
including a liquid accommodating portion for directly accommodating
liquid, a supply port portion for supply the liquid out of said
liquid accommodating portion and a liquid absorbing member
extending from an inner surface of said supply port portion to an
outside of said supply port portion, and liquid lead-out means for
leading the liquid out of said liquid accommodating portion, said
liquid lead-out means including a liquid introduction tube for
receiving the liquid from said liquid accommodating portion, said
liquid introduction tube being insertable into said supply port
portion of said liquid container, said method comprising: a liquid
absorbing step of absorbing the liquid deposited in said supply
port portion by said liquid absorbing member exposed to the inside
of said supply port portion when said liquid container is
disconnected from said liquid lead-out means; a liquid movement
step of moving the liquid absorbed by said absorbing step to
outside of said supply port portion in said liquid absorbing
member; a liquid evaporation step for evaporating the liquid moved
by said moving step, outside said supply port portion in said
liquid absorbing member.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION AND RELATED ART
[0001] The present invention relates to a liquid container used as
an ink container for an inkjet recording apparatus, or the like. It
also relates to a liquid ejecting recording apparatus in which such
a liquid container is removably mountable, and a method for
disconnecting such a liquid container.
[0002] There are various methods for supplying ink to a recording
head which ejects ink as recording liquid. According to one of such
methods, a liquid container (ink container) is rendered separable
from a recording head, or a liquid supply line connected to a
recording head, and such an ink container is replaced.
[0003] There has been known an ink container structure such that a
piece of porous material such as sponge, or a piece of fibrous
material, is stored, preferably in a compressed state, in a manner
to fill the entirety of an ink container to store ink Also, there
have been known various structural arrangements such that, from the
standpoint of improvement in storage efficiency, ink is directly
stored in an ink container, or is stored in such an ink pouch which
deforms in response to ink consumption. For example, Japanese
Laid-Open Patent Application 9-267483 (U.S. Pat. No. 6,145,970)
proposes an ink container having such a structural arrangement.
According to this structural arrangement, the ink container is a
multi-layer ink container, the wall of which has multiple layers
separable from each other, and in which ink is directly stored to
improve ink storage efficiency. It is made with the use of a
molding technology such as blow molding.
[0004] There have been made various proposals to prevent the ink
leakage which occurs as such as ink container as the one described
above is repeatedly connected or disconnected.
[0005] For example, Japanese Laid-Open Patent Application 10-278293
(U.S. Pat. No. 6,135,590) discloses an ink cartridge which is
enabled to deliver ink by being penetrated by a hollow connecting
needle. It comprises: a boxy case; an ink storage portion, or the
internal space of the ink cartridge, partitioned by a plurality of
partitioning walls; a connecting portion, which is provided as a
part of one of the partitioning walls, and is penetrable by a
connecting needle; a stray ink catching portion, which is
independent from the ink storage portion, is located within the
case, away from the ink storage portion, and holds the ink which
has leaked from the ink storage portion; and a connecting needle
cleaning portion, which is formed of wafer repellent elastic
substance, and is penetrable by the connecting needle.
[0006] In the case of the structural arrangement in the above
described ink cartridge, however, attention has been paid only to
the stray ink which adheres to the connecting needle, and the stray
ink is wiped and retained by the stray ink catching portion. Thus,
it is necessary for the stray ink catching portion to be large
enough to assure that even if the connecting and disconnecting of
the ink cartridge is repeated substantial number of times, the
stray ink which adheres to the connecting needle each time
connection and disconnection of the ink cartridge occurs can be
always completely wiped and retained by the stray ink catching
portion. This need for a large stray ink catching portion has been
a significant problem from the standpoint of storage efficiency
improvement.
[0007] Further, Japanese Laid-Open U.M. Application 59-131837 (U.S.
Pat. No. 4,700,202) discloses an ink cartridge structure such that
an ink cartridge which is enabled to deliver ink by being
penetrated by a hollow connecting needle is provided with an ink
absorbing member, which is positioned on the outward side of a
sealing member.
[0008] However, the studies made by the inventors of the present
invention revealed that this structural arrangement suffered from
the following problems. That is, in the case of an ink container
having this structural arrangement, when the number of the
repetitions of the connection and disconnection of the ink
container was smaller, the stray ink could be thoroughly wiped away
by the stray ink catching portion. However, as the number of the
repetition of the connection and disconnection of the ink container
became larger, the stray ink catching portion sometimes failed to
thoroughly wipe the stray ink away, even when some regions of the
stray ink catching portion were not retaining any ink.
[0009] Further, any of the above described structural arrangements
limits the means for connecting an ink container to a recording
apparatus to a hollow needle capable of penetrating the elastic
member of the ink container, making it necessary to provide the
recording apparatus with a device or mechanism for eliminating the
possibility that a user could be hurt by accidentally touching the
hollow needle of the recording apparatus when the recording
apparatus is not fitted with the ink container. In other words, it
increases the number of restraints regarding the recording
apparatus. Thus, it has been desired to solve the above described
problems without relying solely upon a hollow needle.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0010] The primary object of the present invention is to solve the
above described problems, and to provide a liquid container which
is high in ink storage efficiency, does not cause ink dripping or
the like problem even when it is connected or disconnected
substantial number of times, and is superior in terms of ease of
handling, and also to provide a method for disconnecting such a
liquid container.
[0011] According to an aspect of the present invention, there is
provided a liquid container comprising a liquid storing portion,
which is enabled to be connected to, or disconnected from, a supply
tube connected to a liquid ejecting recording head, and which is
for storing the liquid to be supplied to the liquid ejecting
recording head, and a liquid outlet, through which the liquid
within the liquid storing portion is delivered to the recording
head as it is connected to the supply tube, further comprises a
capillary force generating member for generating the capillary
force for causing the stray portions of the recording liquid, which
have adhered to the surface of the supply tube and the internal
surface of the ink outlet, to be absorbed into a space different
from the liquid storing portion (space) within the liquid
container, wherein the capillary force A of a region of the
capillary force generating member, which is located next to the
liquid outlet for absorbing the stray portion of the recording
liquid left behind within the liquid outlet, and the capillary
force B of another region of the capillary force generating member
for storing the stray portion of the recording liquid having been
absorbed into the absorbing region of the capillary force
generating member, satisfy an inequity: A<B.
[0012] According to another aspect of the present invention, there
is provided a liquid container, which is enabled to be connected
to, or disconnected from, a liquid ejecting recording apparatus
provided with a means for drawing out the liquid from a liquid
container, and comprises a liquid storing portion in which liquid
is directly stored, and a liquid outlet into which the liquid
drawing tube of the aforementioned means for drawing out the liquid
from a liquid container, can be inserted, further comprises a first
capillary force generating member in the form of a ring, and a
second capillary force generating member, wherein the liquid outlet
of the liquid container comprises a liquid delivery tube which
constitutes the actual liquid outlet, and a cover for covering the
outward opening of the liquid delivery tube; the first capillary
force generating member is disposed between the cover and liquid
delivery tube; the second capillary force generating member is
disposed in contact with the first capillary force generating
member, and is protected by the cover, and the capillary force A of
the first capillary force generating member and the capillary force
B of the second capillary force generating member satisfy an
inequity: A<B.
[0013] According to a further aspect of the present invention, a
liquid container comprising a liquid storing portion in which
liquid is directly stored, and a liquid outlet through which the
liquid within the liquid storing portion is drawn out, further
comprises a liquid absorbing member comprising first and second
capillary force generating members for absorbing the stray portion
of the liquid left behind within the ink outlet as the liquid
container is disconnected, and the liquid absorbing member is
extended outward of the liquid outlet from the inside of the liquid
outlet. Therefore, even if the liquid from the liquid storing
portion is left behind by a certain amount in the liquid outlet
when disengaging the liquid drawing tube of the means for drawing
the liquid out of the liquid container, which has been inserted
into the liquid outlet, by disconnecting the liquid container from
the means for drawing out the liquid from a liquid container, of
the liquid ejecting recording apparatus, the stray portion of the
liquid is absorbed and retained by the liquid absorbing member.
Since the liquid absorbing member extends outward of the liquid
outlet from the inside of the liquid outlet, it is possible for the
liquid retained in the liquid absorbing member to evaporate from
the second capillary generating portion, that is, the outwardly
extending portion of the liquid absorbing member. Therefore, the
absorbency of the liquid absorbing member remains virtually intact
even after the liquid container has been connected and disconnected
a substantial number of times. Thus, the problem that recording
liquid drips and/or splashes from the liquid outlet of a liquid
container when the liquid container is connected or disconnected
does not occur, and therefore, the problem that the hands,
clothing, and/or the like, of a user is soiled with the liquid does
not occur. Further, even in the case of a liquid container, the
wall of which is given multiple layers separable from each other,
with the use of such technology as blow molding, and in which
liquid is directly stored to improve ink storage efficiency, the
employment of a liquid absorbing member such as the above described
one comprising the first and second capillary force generating
members, can prevent the problem that liquid drips and/or splashes
from the liquid outlet when the liquid container is disconnected.
As a result, the liquid absorbing member for absorbing a certain
amount of liquid left behind as the liquid container is
disconnected is enabled to remain virtually intact in terms of its
absorbency. Therefore, it is possible to provide a liquid container
for liquid to be ejected, which is high in ink storage efficiency,
does not suffer from such a problem as ink dropping even when the
liquid container is connected or disconnected, and is superior in
terms of ease of handling.
[0014] According to a further aspect of the present invention,
there is provided a method for disconnecting a liquid container
comprising: a liquid storing portion in which liquid is directly
stored; a liquid outlet through which the liquid within the liquid
storing portion is drawn out: and a liquid absorbing member
extending outward of the liquid outlet from the inside of the
liquid outlet, from a liquid drawing means which comprises a tube
for drawing out the liquid within the liquid storing portion and
draws the liquid out of the liquid storing portion, after
connecting the liquid container to the liquid drawing means for
drawing out the liquid within the liquid container, comprises: a
liquid absorbing step in which the liquid adhering to the internal
surface of the liquid outlet is absorbed with the use of the region
of the liquid absorbing member exposed to the internal space of the
liquid outlet; a liquid transferring step in which the absorbed
liquid is transferred into the region of the liquid absorbing
member on the outward side of the liquid outlet; and a liquid
evaporating step in which the transferred liquid evaporates from
the region of the liquid absorbing member on the outward side of
the liquid outlet.
[0015] According to the above described method for disconnecting a
liquid container from a liquid drawing means for drawing out the
liquid within the liquid container, when disconnecting a liquid
container for containing liquid to be ejected, comprising a liquid
storing portion, a liquid outlet, and a liquid absorbing member,
from a liquid drawing means comprising a liquid drawing tube
insertable into the liquid outlet of the liquid container, after
the liquid container is connected to the liquid drawing means, the
liquid adhering to the surface of the liquid delivery hole of the
liquid outlet is absorbed by the liquid absorbing member, is
transferred into the region of the liquid absorbing member on the
outward side of the liquid outlet, and is evaporated from the
region of the liquid absorbing member on the outward side of the
liquid outlet. Therefore, as described above, the problem that when
the liquid container is connected or disconnected, the liquid left
behind in the liquid outlet drips and/splashes from the liquid
outlet, does not occur, and therefore, the problem that when the
liquid container is connected or disconnected, the hands, clothing,
and/or the like, of a user are soiled with the liquid, does not
occur. Further, even in the case of a liquid container, the wall of
which is given multiple layers separable from each other, with the
use of such technology as blow molding, and in which liquid is
directly stored to improve ink storage efficiency, the employment
of a liquid container disconnecting means such as the above
described one can eliminate such a problem that when a liquid
container is disconnected, the liquid left behind in the liquid
outlet drips and/or splashes from the liquid outlet, eliminating
therefore, the problem that the hands, clothing, or the like, of a
user are soiled by the liquid, when disconnecting the liquid
container. Further, even in the case of a liquid container, such as
a conventional one, the wall of which is given multiple layers
separable from each other, with the use of such technology as blow
molding, and in which liquid is directly stored to improve ink
storage efficiency, the employment of a liquid container
disconnecting method such as the above described one can eliminate
the problem that when the liquid container is disconnected,
recording liquid drips and/splashes from the liquid outlet of the
liquid container. As a result, even when a liquid container, the
wall of which is given multiple layers separable from each other,
in order to improve ink storage efficiency, is employed, the liquid
container Can be easily disconnected without causing such a problem
as ink dripping and/or ink splashing.
[0016] These and other objects, features and advantages of the
present invention will become more apparent upon a consideration of
the following description of the preferred embodiments of the
present invention taken in conjunction with the accompanying
drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0017] FIG. 1 is a sectional view of the essential portion of the
ink container unit in the first embodiment of the present
invention.
[0018] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the ink reabsorbing member
shown in FIG. 2, for showing the configuration thereof.
[0019] FIG. 3 is a sectional view of the essential portions of the
ink container unit shown in FIG. 1, and an inkjet head which can be
connected to, or disconnected from, the ink container unit, for
showing the process for disconnecting the two.
[0020] FIG. 4 is an enlarged sectional view of the essential
portions of the ink container unit in the state shown in FIG.
3(b).
[0021] FIG. 5 is an enlarged sectional view of the essential
portions of the ink container in the state shown in FIG. 3(c), for
depicting the ink splash.
[0022] FIG. 6 is an enlarged sectional view of the essential
portions of the ink container in the state shown in FIG. 5, for
depicting the effect of the ink re-absorbing member.
[0023] FIG. 7 is a sectional view of the essential portion of the
ink container unit in the second embodiment of the present
invention
[0024] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the ink container unit in
the third embodiment of the present invention.
[0025] FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view of the ink container
unit in the third embodiment of the present invention.
[0026] FIG. 10 is a sectional view of the essential portions of the
ink container unit in the third embodiment of the present
invention.
[0027] FIG. 11 is a sectional view of the essential portions of
modified versions of the ink container in the third embodiment of
the present invention.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0028] Hereinafter, the preferred embodiments of the present
invention will be described with reference to the appended
drawings.
[0029] (Embodiment 1)
[0030] FIG. 1 is a sectional view of the essential portions of the
ink container unit, as a liquid container, in the first embodiment
of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 1, the ink container
unit 200 in this embodiment comprises; an ink container 201 as a
liquid storing portion; a valve mechanism inclusive of a first
valve frame 260a and a second valve frame 260b; and an ID member
250 as an identification member. The ink container unit 200 is
removably mounted in an inkjet recording apparatus as a liquid
ejecting recording apparatus. In this embodiment, the ink container
unit 200 is removably mounted in a holder to which a liquid
delivering means for drawing out the ink within the liquid
container unit 200 is fixed; in other words, an ink cartridge
comprising the holder with the ink delivering means, the ink
container unit 200, and the like, is mounted in an inkjet recording
apparatus.
[0031] The ink container 201 is enabled to generate negative
pressure, and is a hollow container, approximately in the form of a
polygonal pillar. It comprises an external shell 210, and an
internal pouch 220 as a liquid storing pouch. The Internal pouch
220 is enclosed in the external shell 210. They are separable from
each other. The internal pouch 220 is flexible, being therefore
enabled to deform as ink, as recording liquid therein, is drawn out
of it. Further, the internal pouch 220 has a pinch-off portion 221
(welding seam portion), which contributes to the proper support of
the internal pouch 220 by the external shell 210 It also has an air
vent (unshown), which is located adjacent to the pinch-off portion
221, and through which ambient air is allowed to enter between the
internal pouch 220 and external shell 210.
[0032] To the ink container 201, a valve mechanism is welded. The
valve mechanism has a joint hole 230, which is connected to a joint
pipe 180, which will be described later with reference to FIG. 3,
to deliver ink to the joint pipe 180. The valve mechanism has a
first valve frame 260a, a second valve frame 260b, a valve plug
261, a valve cover 262, and a pressure generating member 263. The
valve mechanism with the joint hole 230 is positioned so that it
will be at the bottom of the ink container unit 200 when the ink
container unit 200 is in use. The valve plug 261 is slidably fitted
in the second valve plug 260b, and is kept under the pressure
generated in the direction of the first valve frame 260a by the
pressure generating member 263. When the joint pipe 180 is not
within the joint hole 230, the first valve frame 260a side edge of
the valve plug 261 is kept pressed against the first valve frame
260a, by the resiliency of the pressure generating member 263,
keeping the ink container unit 200 hermetically sealed As the joint
pipe 180 is inserted into the joint hole 230, the joint pipe 180 is
disengageably connected to the joint hole 230, and opens the valve
mechanism.
[0033] The ID member 250 is for preventing the erroneous mounting
of the ink container unit 200. The ID member has a plurality of ID
recesses 252, located on the left and right sides of the ID member,
in a manner to correspond to a plurality of ID members 170 (FIG.
3), which will be described later with reference to FIG. 3. The ID
member 250 is fixed to the external shell 210 of the ink container
201. The ID member 250 makes it possible for an ink container to be
mounted only to a position which corresponds in ink type to the ink
container, in an inkjet recording apparatus.
[0034] As for the fixing of the ID member 250 to the external shell
210, a surface of the external shell 210, which faces the sealing
surface of the first valve frame 260a, at which the first valve
frame 260a is connected to the ink container 201, is engaged with
the click portion of the ID member 250, which is a part of the
bottom portion of the ID member 250, and the catch portion 210a on
the side surface of the external shell 210 is engaged with the
corresponding click portion on the ID member 250 side. Therefore,
the ID member 250 is securely fixed to the ink container 201.
[0035] As regards the mounting error prevention function which is
realized by the ID member and ID recess 252, the mounting error
prevention mechanism is realized by providing the ID member 250
with the plurality of the ID recesses 252, which correspond to the
plurality of ID members 170 with which a negative pressure control
chamber unit 100, which will be described later with reference to
FIG. 3, is provided. Thus, various ID functions can be realized by
varying the configurations and positions of the ID members 170 and
ID recesses 252.
[0036] The ink re-absorbing member 255, which is a liquid absorbing
member, that is, an absorbing means, is placed within the internal
space of the ID member 250, which is on the ink container 201 side
and is different from any of the ID recesses 252. It is securely
held to the ID member 250 with the use of an ink re-absorbing
member retainer 256. The perspective view of the ink re-absorbing
member 255 is FIG. 2. Although the Ink re-absorbing member 255 is
formed in a single piece, it can be conceptually divided into two
regions in terms of external appearance and function. One of the
two regions of the ink reabsorbing member 255 is in the form of a
thin ring, and has a hole 255c, which is smaller in cross section
than the hole of the first valve frame 260a It is an ink absorbing
region 255a confined in the space between the first valve frame
260a and ID member 250. It is located next to the joint hole 230,
with the hole 255c connected to the joint hole 230. The liquid
outlet is constituted of the first valve frame 260a, which is an
ink delivery tube having the joint hole 230, the portion of the ink
re-absorbing member 255 adjacent to the joint hole 230, and the
portion of the ID member 250 adjacent to the joint hole 230. The
ink absorbing region 255a of the ink re-absorbing member 255 is
exposed at the inward surface of the ink outlet. Thus, after the
valve mechanism is closed as the ink container unit 200 is
dismounted from the inkjet recording apparatus, the ink remaining
between the outward edge of the joint hole 230 and the valve
mechanism is absorbed by the portion of the ink reabsorbing member
255, which is exposed to the internal space of the ink outlet.
[0037] Another region of the ink re-absorbing member 255 is thicker
than the above described ring-shaped region, and is large enough to
virtually fill up the space above the ID member 250. It is an ink
storing region designated by a referential code 255b in FIG. 2. The
ink storage region 255b is provided with a recess 255d so that it
matches in shape with the recess-less space of the ID member 250.
The Ink storage region 255b is positioned so that it will be above
the ink absorbing region 255a when the ink container unit 200 is in
usage. In other words, the ink re-absorbing member 255 extends
upward from the inward surface of the ink outlet into the internal
space of the ID member 250, that is, outward of the ink outlet. The
ID member 250 also functions as a cover which covers the outward
edge portion of the first valve frame 260a, and the ink
re-absorbing member 255; the ink re-absorbing member 255 is
protected by the ID member 250, eliminating the possibility that
the ink having been absorbed by the ink re-absorbing member 255
might soil the hands of a user.
[0038] The ink re-absorbing member 255 is a piece of capillary
force generating material. In this embodiment, it is a piece of
fibrous substance uniform in fiber direction. However, substances
other than the fibrous substance, which generate capillary force,
may be used as the material for the ink re-absorbing member 255;
for example, foamed urethanes porous substances formed by molding,
sintering, or the like, may be employed. Further, the ink
re-absorbing member 255 may be such material that generates
capillary force with the use of fine tubes.
[0039] Next, the function of the ink re-absorbing member 255 will
be described along with the mechanism of the ink dripping, which
occurs as the ink container unit 200 is separated from the negative
pressure control chamber unit 100. FIG. 3 shows the steps through
which the ink container unit 200 in this embodiment is dismounted
from the inkjet cartridge in which the ink container unit 200 has
been removably mounted. FIG. 3(a) shows the ink container unit 200
and inkjet cartridge in the properly connected state; FIG. 3(b),
the ink container unit 200 and inkjet cartridge during their
separation from each other; and FIG. 3(c) shows the state in which
ink container unit 200 and inkjet cartridge are perfectly in
connection to each other.
[0040] The inkjet cartridge comprises: an inkjet head unit 160 as a
recording element; a holder 150; the negative pressure control
chamber unit 100 as a liquid drawing means; the ink container unit
201; and the like. The negative pressure control chamber unit 100
is securely held with the holder 150, and the inkjet head unit 160
is fixed to the bottom end of the negative pressure control chamber
unit 100, with the interposition of the holder 150 Regarding the
means for securing the holder and negative pressure control chamber
unit 100 relative to each other, and the means for securing the
holder 150 and inkjet head unit 160 relative to each other, such a
means as using screws, providing the components with snap-fitting
features, or the like, that allows the above described components
to be easily disassembled from each other is preferable, since ease
of disassembly is effective for cost reduction in recycling,
structural modification for upgrading, or the like. Further, ease
of disassembly is also preferable due to the fact that the various
components are different in service life length; ease of
disassembly makes it easier to replace the components which need to
be replaced. However, under certain circumstances, such means as
welding, thermal crimping, or the like, may be used to permanently
fix the components to each other, which is obvious.
[0041] The negative pressure control chamber unit 100 has a
negative pressure control chamber container 110 which has a hole in
the top wall; a negative pressure control chamber lid 120 attached
to the top wall of the negative pressure control chamber container
110; and two absorbent members 130 and 140, which fill the negative
pressure control chamber container 110 to absorb and remain ink.
The absorbent members 130 and 140 fill the negative pressure
control chamber container 110, remaining in contact with each
other, in such a manner that when the inkjet head cartridge is in
use, they will be vertically layered. The amount of the capillary
force which the absorbent member 140, or the bottom layer,
generates is greater than that which the absorbent member 130, or
the top layer, generates. Therefore, the absorbent member 140, the
bottom layer, is greater in ink retaining capability. The ink
within the negative pressure control chamber unit 100 is supplied
to the inkjet head unit 160 through an ink supply tube 165.
[0042] On the other hand, the inkjet head unit 160 comprises: an
ink path (unshown) in connection with the ink supply tube 165; a
plurality of nozzles (unshown), each of which is equipped with an
energy generating element (unshown) for generating ink ejection
energy; and a common liquid chamber which temporarily holds the ink
supplied through the ink path, and from which the ink is supplied
to each nozzle. The energy generation element is connected to the
terminal with which the holder 150 is provided. The terminal of the
holder 150 becomes connected to the electrical control system of
the recording apparatus as the holder 150 is mounted on the
carriage of the inkjet recording apparatus. A recording signal from
the recording apparatus is sent to the energy generation element of
the inkjet head unit 160 through the terminal of the holder 150 to
drive the energy generation element to give ejection energy to the
ink within the nozzle. As a result, the ink is ejected from an
ejection orifice, that is, the outward end of the nozzle. As the
ejected ink adheres to a recording medium such as a piece of paper,
an image in the form of a letter, a figure, or the like, is
recorded on the recording medium.
[0043] An ink delivery opening 130, which is the end of the ink
delivery tube 165, on the absorbent member 140 side, is fitted with
a filter 161, with the filter 161 pressing on the absorbent member
140. The ink container unit 200 is structured so that it can be
removably mounted in the holder 150. The joint pipe 180, which is a
part of the negative pressure control chamber container 110,
located on the ink container unit 200 side of the negative pressure
control chamber container 110, and to which the ink container unit
200 is connected, is such a pipe that will have been inserted into,
being therefore connected to, the joint hole 230 of the ink
container unit 200 when the ink container unit 200 is properly
placed in the holder 150. The negative pressure control chamber
unit 100 and ink container unit 200 are structured so that as the
joint pipe 180 and joint hole 230 are connected to each other, the
ink within the ink container unit 200 is supplied into the negative
pressure control chamber unit 100. In other words, the joint pipe
180 is a liquid delivery pipe for drawing the ink within the ink
container unit 200 into the negative pressure control chamber unit
100; it is a liquid drawing tube through which the ink within the
ink container unit 200 is drawn into the negative pressure control
chamber unit 100. The negative pressure control chamber unit 100 is
provided with the ID member 170, which is for preventing the ink
container unit 200 from being erroneously mounted, projects outward
from a portion of the external surface of the negative pressure
control chamber container 110, and is on the ink container unit 200
side of the negative pressure control chamber container 110 and
above the joint pipe 180.
[0044] The negative pressure control chamber lid 120 is provided
with an air vent 115 for connecting the internal space of the
negative pressure control chamber container 110, more specifically,
the absorbent member 130 stored in the negative pressure control
chamber container 110, to ambient air. Within the negative pressure
control chamber container 110, a buffer space 116 is provided,
which is created by the provision of the ribs projecting inward
from the absorbent member 130 side surface of the negative pressure
control chamber lid 120. The buffer space 116 is the portion of the
internal space of the negative pressure control chamber container
110, in which no ink (liquid) is present. It is located next to the
air vent 115.
[0045] When the ink container unit 200 is connected to the negative
pressure control chamber unit 100, the joint pipe 180 is inserted
into the joint hole 230, pressing the valve plug 261. As the valve
plug 261 is pressed by the joint pipe 180, it moves in the
direction to separate from the first valve frame 260a. As a result,
the internal space of the joint pipe 180 becomes connected to the
internal space of the ink container unit 200 through the hole made
in the side wall of the second valve frame 260b; the hermetically
sealed ink container unit 200 is opened to allow the ink within the
ink container unit 200 to be drawn into the negative pressure
control chamber unit 100 through the joint hole 230 and joint pipe
180. In other words, the ink storage portion of the ink container
unit 200 which has remained hermetically sealed becomes connected
to the negative pressure control chamber unit 100 only through the
above described hole.
[0046] When the ink container unit 200 is in connection with the
negative pressure control chamber unit 100 as shown in FIG. 3(a),
the joint pipe 180 remains filled with ink. However, as the ink
container unit 200 is separated from the negative pressure control
chamber unit 100 as shown in FIG. 3(b), air is introduced into the
joint pipe 180 from the bottom side of the outward end of the joint
pipe 180, allowing the ink within the joint pipe 180 and joint hole
230 to be absorbed into the negative pressure control chamber unit
100 due to the capillary force of the absorbent member 140 within
the negative pressure control chamber unit 100. In this situation,
if the speed at which the ink container unit 200 is separated from
the negative pressure control chamber unit 100 is greater than the
speed at which the ink is absorbed into the negative pressure
control chamber unit 100, the separation ends with a certain amount
of the ink left behind in the joint pipe 180 and joint hole 230;
some of the ink is left in the joint pipe 180, and the other is
left in the joint hole 230. The ink left in the joint pipe 180 is
absorbed into the negative pressure control chamber unit 100 As for
the ink 301 left in the joint hole 230, if the ink reabsorbing
member is not present as shown in FIG. 4 the ink 301 in the joint
hole 230 remains unabsorbed since the valve mechanism on the ink
container unit 200 side has been closed In this situation, the ink
left in the joint hole 230, or stray ink, fails, due to its
inertia, to follow the ink container unit 200 which is moving away.
As a result, some of the ink 301 left in the joint hole 230 is
released into the air as shown in FIG. 5, turning into a stray ink
droplet 302, which leads out of the joint hole 230, dripping or
splashing.
[0047] The ink re-absorbing member 255 is provided as a means for
absorbing the aforementioned ink left behind in the joint hole 230.
Referring to FIG. 6, the ink left in the joint hole 230, that is,
the ink adhering to the surface of the joint hole 230, comes into
contact with the edge 255c of the ink re-absorbing member 255, and
then is absorbed into the ink absorbing region 255a from this edge
255c. The absorbing ink 303 is retained within the ink reabsorbing
member 255, and the liquid components of the absorbed ink 303
evaporate with time. The diameter of the hole 255c of the ink
re-absorbing member 255 is made slightly smaller than the diameter
of the joint hole 230. Therefore, the ink left within the joint
hole 230 is enabled to easily come into contact with the edge
portion of the hole 255c of the ink re-absorbing member 255.
[0048] In the above, the present invention was described with
reference to an ink container in which ink is directly stored.
However, an ink re-absorbing member in accordance with the present
invention is also applicable to a liquid container of a
conventional type in which ink is stored with the use of capillary
force from an ink absorbing member. The effects of such an
application will be similar to those described above regarding this
embodiment.
[0049] The ink absorbing capacity of the ink absorbing region 255a
is only twice the amount of the ink which might be left behind in
the joint hole 230 each time the ink container unit 200 is
disconnected. However, if the ink container unit 200 is
disconnected after it has already been disconnected two or more
times, the absorbed ink moves to the ink storage region 255b from
the top portion of the ink absorbing region 255a. Since the ink
storage region 255b is kept compressed by being secured by the ink
reabsorbing member holder 256, the capillary force in this region
is greater than that of the ink absorbing region 255a. In other
words, when A and B represent the capillary forces of the ink
absorbing region 255a and ink storage region 255b, respectively, an
inequity: A<B is satisfied.
[0050] Therefore, the ink within the ink absorbing region 255a
swiftly moves into the ink storage region 255b, always leaving the
ink absorbing region 255a in the condition under which the ink
absorbing region 255a is capable of absorbing ink. Thus, even if
the ink container unit 200 is disconnected a large number of times
with short intervals, the ink absorbing region 255a is always
capable of dealing with the ink left behind in the joint hole 230.
Further, even if the hands of a user happen to come into contact
with the ink storing region 255b, there is little possibility that
the hands will be soiled with ink. As for the ink absorbing
capacity of the ink storage region 255b, it is eight times the
amount of the ink which will be left behind in joint hole 230 each
time the ink container unit 200 is disconnected. Thus, the overall
ink absorbing capacity of the ink re-absorbing member 255 is ten
times, that is, a combination of twice by the ink absorbing region
255a and eight times by the ink storage region 255b, the amount of
the ink which will be left behind within the Joint hole 230 and
will have to be absorbed by the ink absorbing region 255a each time
the ink container unit 200 is disconnected.
[0051] It is possible that in reality, there is a certain amount of
interval between a given operation for disconnecting an ink
container unit and the following operation for disconnecting the
same ink container. Further, it is assured that the ID member 250
is not placed in contact with the ink container 201 without any gap
between them. In other words, a gap is provided as a passage
between the ID member 250 and ink container 201. The space within
the ID member 250, that is, the space for holding the ink
reabsorbing member 255 within the ink container unit 200, is
connected to the atmospheric air through this gap. Therefore, it
can be expected that the ink evaporates from the ink re-absorbing
member 255 through this gap between the ID member 250 and ink
container 201. It is mainly the liquid components of the ink
retained by the ink storage region 255d, that is, the liquid
components retained in the outward portion of the ink delivery
portion of the ink re-absorbing member 255, that vaporate through
the gap between the ID member 250 and ink container 201. Because of
the above described evaporation of the liquid components of the
ink, the ink re-absorbing member 255 is capable of dealing with
such an amount of the ink which will be left behind in the joint
hole 230, that is equivalent to approximately twenty times the
amount of the ink which will be left behind in the joint hole 230
and will have to be absorbed by the ink absorbing region 255a each
time the ink container unit 200 is disconnected. In other words, in
consideration of the number of times the ink container unit 200 is
connected to, and disconnected from, the negative pressure control
chamber unit 100 until the ink within the ink container unit 200 is
completely used, the ink absorbing capacity of the ink re-absorbing
member 255 is more than sufficient. Instead of providing the gap
between the ID member 250 and ink container unit 201 in order to
connect the space for storing the ink reabsorbing member 255 to the
atmospheric air, an opening such as a hole, as an air passage, may
be provided between the ID member 250 and ink container 201, or the
ID member 250 itself may be provided with such an opening.
[0052] As described above, in the case of the ink container unit
200 in this embodiment, even when a certain amount of ink is left
behind astray in the joint hole 230 as the ink container unit 200
is disconnected from the negative pressure control chamber unit
100, the stray ink in the joint hole 230 is absorbed and retained
by the ink re-absorbing member 255. Therefore, the problem that
when the ink container unit 200 is disconnected, ink drips and/or
splashes from the joint hole 230, does not occur, preventing the
hands and/or clothing of a user from being soiled by liquid.
[0053] The extension of the ink re-absorbing member 255 from the
surface of the joint hole 230 outward of the joint hole 230 allows
the liquid components of the ink retained by the ink re-absorbing
member 255 to evaporate from the outwardly extending portion of the
ink re-absorbing member 255 Therefore, even when the ink container
unit 200 is connected and disconnected a plural number of times
with relatively short intervals, the ink re-absorbing member 255
remains sufficiently absorbent.
[0054] Further, even in the case of a liquid container, such as a
conventional liquid container, the wall of which is given a
plurality of layers separable from each other; with the use of such
a molding technology as blow molding, and in which liquid is
directly stored to improve ink storage efficiency, the employment
of a liquid absorbing member similar in function to the ink
re-absorbing member 255 can prevent recording liquid from dripping
and/or splashing from the ink delivery hole, when the ink container
unit 200 is separated from the negative pressure control chamber
unit 100. Consequently, the liquid absorbing member for absorbing
the liquid left behind in the liquid outlet is enabled to remain
sufficiently absorbent, and it is possible to realize a liquid
container which is high in ink storage efficiency, does not allow
problems such as ink dripping even during its connection and
disconnection, and is superior in terms of ease of handling.
[0055] (Embodiment 2)
[0056] FIG. 7 is a sectional view of the essential portion of the
ink container unit, that is, a liquid container, in the second
embodiment of the present invention.
[0057] As depicted in FIG. 7, the ink container unit in this
embodiment employs an ink re-absorbing member 257 in the place of
the ink re-absorbing member 255 of the Ink container unit 200 in
the first embodiment. The ink re-absorbing member 257 comprises two
members: an ink absorbing member 257a as a capillary force
generating first member, and an ink storage member 257b as a
capillary force generating second member. The two members are in
contact with each other at an interface 270. The ink storing member
257b and ink absorbing member 257a are positioned so that the top
portion of the ink storing member 257b will be above the ink
absorbing member 257a when the ink container unit is in use. The
ink absorbing member 257a is in the form of a thin ring as is the
ink absorbing region 255a of the ink reabsorbing member 255 in the
first embodiment. It has a hole smaller in cross section than the
first valve frame 260a, and is disposed within the space between
the first valve frame 260a and ID member 250 in a manner of being
sandwiched by the first valve frame 260a and ID member 250.
[0058] The ink absorbing member 257a and ink storing member 257b
are protected by the ID member 250. Therefore, there is no
possibility that the hands of a user will be soiled by the Ink
having been absorbed in the ink absorbing member 257a and ink
storing member 257b. The capillary force of the ink storing member
257b is rendered greater than that of the ink absorbing member
257a; there is a substantial difference in capillary force between
the two members. In other words, representing the capillary forces
of the ink absorbing member 257a and ink storing member 257b with C
and D, an inequity; C<D is satisfied. This setup increases the
speed of the ink movement between the two members.
[0059] In the case of a single piece ink reabsorbing member such as
the ink re-absorbing member 255 in the first embodiment, its
configuration is required to conform to the shape of the internal
space of the ID member 250. Therefore, a dedicated ink reabsorbing
member is necessary for each of the plurality of the ink container
units for an inkjet head, since each ink container unit is
different in ink color from the others, and therefore, is different
in ID member configuration from the others. In comparison, dividing
an ink re-absorbing member into two pieces as in the case of the
ink re-absorbing member 257, that is, a two piece member, makes it
possible to devise the two pieces in terms of the configuration of
their front and/or back sides, and/or the direction in which the
two pieces are mounted, so that the internal spaces of all the ID
members can be properly filled with identical ink re-absorbing
members. Therefore, it is possible to reduce component count.
[0060] The ink re-absorbing member 257 in this embodiment comprises
two members; ink absorbing member 257a and ink storing member 257b.
The ink absorbing member 257a may be replaced by a member with
grooves, which is capable of generating capillary force, and is
placed in a manner to occupy the same location as the ink absorbing
member 257a. In such a case, the member with grooves may be a part
of the ID member 250, or a member independent from the ID member
250.
[0061] (Embodiment 3)
[0062] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the ink container unit, that
is, a liquid container, in the third embodiment of the present
invention, and FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view thereof.
[0063] An ink container unit 50 has an ink container 6 and a lid 7.
The lid 7 is hermetically attached to the top side 6a of the ink
container 6, creating an ink storing chamber (unshown), in which
ink (liquid to be ejected) is stored. The ink container 6 is
provided with a liquid outlet 6c, which projects outward from a
surface of the ink container 6, on the side opposite to the side to
which the lid 7 is attached, that is, the bottom wall 6b of the ink
container 6. The ink container unit 50 also comprises a bottom
cover 1, which is attached to the ink container unit 50 in a manner
to encase the liquid outlet 6c. The bottom cover 1 is provided with
a hole, the position of which corresponds with that of the liquid
outlet 6c.
[0064] The liquid outlet 6c has two through holes: liquid delivery
first hole 11 and liquid delivery second hole 12, both of which
lead to the ink storing chamber. The liquid container unit 6 also
comprises: a pair of elastic members 5, which are inserted in the
liquid delivery first and second holes 11 and 12, one for one, and
holding members 4 and 9, which have a pair of holes, the positions
of which correspond to those of the liquid delivery holes 11, and
12, one for one. The holding members 4 and 9 are fixed to the
liquid outlet 6c by ultrasonic welding, in a manner to keep the
elastic members 5 compressed. In other words, the elastic members 5
are held compressed within the liquid delivery holes 11 and 12, one
for one, in a manner to virtually hermetically plug the liquid
delivery holes 11 and 12. Thus, until the hollow needle on the
recording apparatus main assembly side is inserted into the liquid
delivery holes 11 and 12 through the elastic members 5, the ink
storing chamber 523 is kept hermetically sealed by these elastic
members 5 and lid 7. Incidentally, a capillary force generating
member 8 is placed between the holding members 4 and 9.
[0065] Referring to FIG. 10, at this time, the ink re-absorbing
member, which characterizes the present invention, will be
described. FIG. 10 is a sectional view of the essential portions of
the ink container unit in this third embodiment of the present
invention; FIGS. 10(a) and 10(b) showing the essential portions
through which the hollow needle has not been, and has been,
inserted into the ink container 5, respectively.
[0066] In this embodiment, the capillary force generating member 8
is formed of felt or the like material, which is virtually uniform
in thickness and fiber density. The position of the capillary force
generating member 8 is fixed by being sandwiched by the two holding
members 4 and 9. Referring to FIG. 10(a), as the capillary force
generating member 8 is sandwiched by the two holding members 4 and
9, the sandwiched portion of the capillary force generating member
8 is compressed, whereas the portion of the capillary force
generating member 8 adjacent to its hole is caused to protrude
inward of the ink delivery hole 11 (or 12). As a result, the
capillary force generating member 8 is divided into a region 8a, as
an ink absorbing region, which is relatively small in capillary
force, and a region 8b, as an ink storing region, which is
relatively large in capillary force.
[0067] Next, referring to FIG. 10(b), after the insertion of the
hollow ink delivery needle 10, the ink absorbing region 8a of the
capillary force generating member 8 is in contact with the hollow
needle 10, being therefore enabled to absorb the ink adhering to
the needle, and also the ink left on the outward side of the ink
delivery hole 11 (or 12) relative to the elastic member 5, as the
hollow needle 10 is inserted or pulled out. The ink having been
absorbed into the ink absorbing region 8a moves into the ink
storing region 8b due to the difference in capillary force between
the two regions, Further, the ink retained in the ink absorbing
region 8a quickly evaporates because this region is exposed to the
atmospheric air. Thus, it is assured that even if the insertion and
extraction of the hollow needle are repeated, the ink on the hollow
needle and the ink left behind on the outward side of the ink
delivery hole 11 (or 12) with respect to the elastic member 5 are
absorbed and retained.
[0068] FIG. 11 shows modifications of the capillary force
generating member 8 in this embodiment.
[0069] In the case of the modification shown in FIG. 11(a), the
holding member 14 is provided with a tapered portion 14a, so that
the capillary force of the capillary force generating member
gradually changes in terms of the radial direction of the ink
delivery hole. In the case of the modification shown in FIG. 11(b),
the capillary force generating member comprises two portions: a
portion 18, which is formed of a piece of felt or a fiber bundle,
and is relatively smaller in capillary force, and a groove 28,
which is formed as a part of the holding member 24 or 19, and is
relatively high in capillary force.
[0070] These structural arrangements also provided effects similar
to those provided by the preceding embodiments.
[0071] While the invention has been described with reference to the
structures disclosed herein, it is not confined to the details set
forth and this application is intended to cover such modifications
or changes as may come within the purposes of the improvements or
the scope of the following claims.
* * * * *